Antique Botswana Lidded Basket Sidley Collection

The baskets from Botswana bear a striking resemblance to those crafted by the Zulu people of South Africa. Basket weaving has been a longstanding tradition in Botswana, mirroring the rich heritage of the Zulu, and continues to thrive today, boasting an array of styles, sizes, and decorations. The artisans of Botswana showcase remarkable creativity, elevating these baskets to collectible treasures.

The art of basket making is a skill passed down through generations, exclusively practiced by women, particularly those from the Bayei and Hambukushu ethnic groups. These exquisite baskets are meticulously handcrafted from fibers of the Mokola palm tree, abundant in the Okavango region of Botswana. The process is intricate, often taking up to a month to produce a medium-sized basket.

Each basket is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of its maker, with indigenous materials such as palm fibers and reeds ensuring both strength and durability. The end result is not just a functional vessel, but a work of art that maintains its shape and resists compression, reflecting the mastery of the intricate weaving techniques employed.

Provenance: Niña Sidley Collection

After a long career in publishing, Niña Sidley returned to her first love: collecting the art, artifacts, and textiles of the world’s indigenous peoples. Part of her mission has been to educate others and to honor the extraordinary creativity, ingenuity, and heartfelt messages these handmade works send from their makers. Niña believes this deep respect for tradition and beauty inspires and ties all of us together as one world.

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